Make a Splash in our 360-Acre Private Lake.
Sunnen Lake offers a serene setting for a variety of water activities suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, our lake provides the perfect backdrop for memorable experiences while enjoying your stay at Trout Lodge.
Boathouse & Watercraft Rentals
Available Spring to Fall (weather permitting) | No sign-up required
Head to our boathouse and check out your choice of canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Plus, jon boats, ideal for fishing or leisurely cruises, can be checked out by guests over 18 with a valid driver's license.
Note: Life jackets are required. Boat check-out ends 30 minutes before the boathouse closes.
Beach & Swimming Area
Available Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend | No sign-up required
Designated Swimming Area: Swim safely within our marked zones, complete with lifeguard supervision. If lounging at the beach is more your style, we have plenty of lounge chairs available on our sandy shore.
Water Slide: Splash into the lake from our exciting slide.
Lake Swing: Test your bravery and swing into the refreshing waters.
Note: Life jackets are required for certain ages and activities. A swim test may be necessary. [link to FAQ section at the bottom for more information on swim tests]
Guided Boat Rides
Available Spring to Fall (weather permitting) | Advance sign-up required
Guided Pontoon Tours: Relax and take in the sights as you cruise around Sunnen Lake. $5 a person.
Pirate Pontoons: Ahoy! Join the pirate crew and shoot water guns at the opposing pontoon boat! $10 a person.
Banana Boats: Ride behind the pontoon boat on a giant inflatable banana for a more adventurous, and wet, ride! $10 a person.
Boat Float: Pleasure cruise around Sunnen Lake with a rootbeer float to enjoy. $10 a person.
Guided Kayak Float: Discover the peaceful side of Trout Lodge with a guided kayak float, providing a leisurely exploration of the lake’s shoreline and ecosystem. $10 a person.
Mud Cave: Take a boat ride to the far side of the lake and go caving! $12 a person.
Note: Ages 8 and under must wear a life jacket, and children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.
Fishing
Available Year-Round (weather permitting) | No sign-up required
Cast a line and try your luck at catching bass, catfish, and other local species in our lake. Rods and basic gear are available for rent at the boathouse.
Note: A fishing license is required for guests aged 16 and older.
Waterfront Activity Access
Helpful hint: The table is best viewed from a mobile device when it is horizontal.
|
Deep Water |
< 3 ft Water |
Trampoline |
Water Slide |
Rope Swing |
|
| Green Band (ages 8–13) | Yes | Yes | Yes with PFD | Yes | Yes |
| Green Band (ages 7 & under) | Yes with Adult | Yes with Adult | Yes with PFD & Adult | Yes | No |
| Orange Band (ages 8–13) | Yes with PFD | Yes | Yes with PFD | Yes with PFD | Yes with PFD |
| Blue Band (ages 7 & under) | Yes with PFD & Adult | Yes with Adult | Yes with PFD & Adult | Yes with PFD | No |
PFD = Personal Flotation Device
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, during the summer season, lifeguards are on guard at designated swim areas during posted hours.
No, standard boats like canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, and jon boats are free to use with your stay. Guided boat rides do have a fee, however.
NEED ANSWER
NEED ANSWER
No. Life jackets are provided and required for most lake activities, especially for children and boating. Pick up a jacket in your size at the boathouse before exploring our lake!
NEED ANSWER
- Children 7 and under must be accompanied in the water at all times by a responsible adult (18+) and remain at arms reach of the adult.
- Children 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult while on property at YMCA Trout Lodge.
- Children 13 and under will be asked to take a swim test to swim in the deep area or use the Lake Swing.
No swimming is permitted when a red flag is posted at the waterfront. A red flag may be posted because:
- Non-programmed waterfront activity is not permitted after dark.
- Waterfront activity is not permitted when the combined air and water temperature is below 100° F.
- Waterfront activity is not permitted during certain weather conditions including thunder, lightning, and high winds.
Green flags posted at the waterfront indicate that swimming is permitted and lifeguards are on duty at this time.
Your Lakeside Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re paddling through peaceful waters, jumping off the lake swing, or cruising into the sunset on a pontoon, Sunnen Lake is at the heart of your Trout Lodge experience.
Book your stay at YMCA Trout Lodge today and make memories that are sure to make a splash!